Nose injury ends Abate’s UAAP career with UE

UE’s John Abate

(UAAP Media Bureau)

MANILA, Philippines — University of the East guard John Abate has bid goodbye to the Red Warriors and his collegiate journey after reinjuring his fractured nose.

Abate, who is among the main guns of the 0-11 UE squad, announced the decision to cut his collegiate journey “to an early end” in an Instagram post on Sunday.

“A warrior is taught to persevere, to fight even when the odds are against him, and to honor the place he calls home. My journey with UE may have been short, but has left a mark on me that I’ll carry for life,” he said.

“I hope that through my time here, you’ve seen not just the player, but the person I’ve matured into, one built on pride, grit, and love for this family and the game. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for EVERYTHING,” he added.

In a message to Philstar.com, Abate said he was diagnosed with a fractured nose, which prompted the end of his UAAP career.

“I was diagnosed with a fractured nose. I fractured it right before the season started and fractured it again,” he told Philstar.com.

He said that his next step will be the professional ranks.

“My next step will definitely be to go professional but uncertain to where that will be.”

In his post, the UE team captain thanked his teammates and coaches for the opportunity to lead the team as well as the memories with them.

“As my collegiate journey comes to an early end, I just want to remind you not to take any of it for granted. The early mornings, the sore bodies, the times you question yourself, those moments are where greatness is built. Someday you’ll look back and realize those were the best days of your life,” he said.

“When the games don’t go your way, remember that you are so much more than basketball players. This sport is what we do, but it’s not all that we are. One bad game or one rough season doesn’t define you. Keep your heart in it, keep learning, and trust in God that your path will take you where you’re meant to be on God’s timing, not yours,” he added.

“To the entire UE community, my teammates, and everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you for the love and support through every high and low. It’s been an honor to wear the red and white and to fight beside my brothers. No matter where life takes me next, a part of my heart will always belong to this family.”

Abate did not suit up in the Red Warriors’ 70-61 loss against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on Saturday.

In 10 games this season, he averaged 16.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists per contest, as well as 1.9 steals per game. He shot 45% from the field, including a 35.3% clip from beyond the arc.

UE has dropped 17 straight games dating back to last season.

The Red Warriors, already out of Final Four contention this season, has three elimination games remaining.